Gertrude Eva Crannell

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our very dear G. Eva Crannell, on January 3, 2025.   

Eva was born on September 29, 1931, and raised in Battle Creek, Michigan. She was the 6th child of Donald and Gertrude (Caswell) Munger. She has been preceded in death by her parents, husband Boyd Crannell, all 5 siblings and a dear granddaughter. She is also preceded in death by her first husband, Virgil “Lucky” Starks, with whom she was married 45 years.  

Eva and her husband Boyd were married in 1994 and loved to entertain their friends and family with a BBQ and horseshoes. The two enjoyed traveling together, especially Las Vegas, Florida and to Boyd’s Naval reunions. Visiting casinos around the country was a favorite pastime for both as well as playing board games. Eva had a great love for all animals and enjoyed feeding and watching the wildlife in her backyard. She had an amazing green thumb and could make anything grow with her natural nurturing way. Spending time with her grandkids, and great grandkids was one of Eva’s greatest joys in life, and they all adored her.  

During Eva’s 31 year career as a reclaim line worker at Kellogg’s, she made many lifelong friends and was an active member of the Kellogg 25 year club. Eva was an avid bowler, going to Nationals several times over the years with her team who were also great lifelong friends.  

Eva was a radiant soul who filled our lives with boundless love and laughter. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and an infectious spirit that touched everyone who knew her. Eva was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend. Her unconditional passion for helping others and selflessness is unmatched and will never be forgotten. Eva will be deeply missed, but the warmth of her presence will forever remain in our hearts.  

Eva leaves behind a son, Jim Starks (Anne), and daughters Carolyn Starks, and Sharon Starks. In addition, Eva leaves behind 6 beloved grandchildren, Dana Edwards (Bunky), Brandi White, Darci VanValkenburg (Bill), Daniel Starks, Alex Starks (Brian Gayheart), and Delanie Starks (1993-2022), 8 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.  

Services include a friends and family visitation at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, 703 Capital Ave SW, Battle Creek MI 49015 on Sunday January 12th from 3-6pm. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Monday, January 13th at 12pm with a committal service at Fort Custer National Cemetery 15501 Dickman Rd, Augusta MI 49012. Immediately following will be a ‘Celebration of Life’ luncheon at Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to All Species Kinship (A. S. K.) serving the underserved animals of Calhoun County. www.henryfuneralhome.org